Sophia Electric 5U4G Rectifier Tubes
Sophia Electric’s latest Blue Glass 5U4G is a revolutionary product that delivers superior high resolution, wider bandwidth (high-frequency and bass extension), and musicality unmatched by any vintage 5U4 family rectifier tubes. Learning from their experience with the 274B, Sophia Electric’s designers crafted this tube to be 1/3 274B and 2/3 5U4G. The result is a magical-sounding tube at a lower price than the 274B, with broader compatibility in real-life applications.
The only trade-off for delivering such high sonic performance is a limitation in maximum current capability. The maximum current is 200-220mA at 450V DC. It may not be suitable as a replacement for 5AR4/5U4 if only one rectifier is used for both channels in a push-pull 6L6, EL34, or KT66 amplifier. It performs best when each channel has its own rectifier tube.
The lifespan of the tube is directly related to how hard the tube is operated to its maximum specifications. If used within its design parameters, it will be a super reliable tube, much like vintage 5U4 tubes have proven to be.